Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago: Get Tickets Online To Visit

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Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago (MCA)

Highlights

Experience an extensive array of modern art, spanning paintings, sculptures, graphic design, and photography.

Enjoy rotating exhibitions that feature both emerging and established artists.

Discover a dynamic cultural space that hosts theater, performance art, and film screenings.

Visit the stylish gift shop and dine at the on-site restaurant for a complete museum experience.

Explore special exhibitions and original creations by living artists in a vibrant gallery setting.

About Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago (MCA) is one of the largest institutions dedicated to contemporary art, featuring more than 3,700 works from artists like Andy Warhol and Kara Walker. Located in a striking building designed by Josef Paul Kleihues, the museum offers dynamic exhibitions, a sculpture garden, and a robust performing arts program.

Address: 220 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Founded: 1967
Collections: More than 3,700 works, including paintings, sculptures, photography, video, and installation art, with new acquisitions added regularly

Which Ticket to Buy to the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago?

Buy the MCA Entry Ticket...

if you're looking for a comprehensive visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. It grants you access to the entire museum, including the permanent collection and any temporary exhibitions currently on display. You’ll have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of art forms, from sculpture to performance art, and enjoy the full museum experience, complete with a gift shop and restaurant. Perfect for those who want to take their time and immerse themselves in the art.

Buy The Chicago All-Inclusive Pass...

if you want to explore Chicago’s top attractions beyond the museum, as well. This pass gives you access to over 25 of the city's best sights, including the Museum of Contemporary Art. With the flexibility to use your pass over multiple days and a digital guidebook to assist with planning, it’s perfect for tourists who want to visit several places at their own pace. Enjoy not only the museum but also attractions like the Shedd Aquarium, Navy Pier, and Skydeck Chicago.

Buy the Chicago CityPASS®...

if you're looking for a cost-effective way to explore the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago and other major Chicago attractions. Offering discounted entry to five premier attractions, including the MCA, this pass helps you skip long lines and enjoy fast entry. It’s an excellent choice for visitors who want to experience some of Chicago's best cultural and historical sites without breaking the bank.

Why You Should Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art chicago

D. Daskalopoulos Collection Gift

In 2022, the MCA and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum jointly received more than 100 contemporary artworks from the D. Daskalopoulos Collection, one of the most significant gifts in the MCA’s history.

Engaging Exhibitions

Visit dynamic, rotating exhibitions such as "City in a Garden: Queer Art and Activism in Chicago" and "Dancing the Revolution: From Dancehall to Reggaetón," exploring themes of activism and artistic expression.

"Tuesdays on the Terrace" Music Series

Enjoy live performances by local artists in an open-air setting during the summer months, blending art and community.

Free Guided Tours

Free public tours are offered regularly, tied to the museum’s current exhibitions, for deeper insight into the art on view and the artists’ creative processes.

Diverse Art Collections

Discover a collection of more than 3,700 works from artists like Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman, and Jeff Koons, showcasing various mediums and styles.

Marisol Restaurant

Enjoy local cuisine at the MCA’s on-site restaurant, Marisol, with art installations by Chris Ofili creating a unique dining experience.

World-Class Venue

The museum’s striking architecture offers 45,000 square feet of gallery space, a 300-seat theater, and an outdoor sculpture garden.

Before You Go to Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

Timings
Directions
Facilites
Good to know

Operating Hours

- The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is open Tuesday from 10 am to 9 pm, Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, and is closed on Mondays.

- The museum also closes on major holidays including New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

- For a comprehensive and enjoyable visit, we recommend planning to spend approximately 2 to 3 hours exploring the exhibitions and programs.

Interesting Facts About the Museum of Art, Chicago

The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, established in 1967, spans a significant urban space dedicated to showcasing groundbreaking contemporary art and culture.

The MCA’s permanent collection has grown to more than 3,700 works spanning painting, sculpture, photography, video, and installation art, and continues to expand through new acquisitions and gifts.

Visitors can join free public exhibition tours, typically lasting about 45 minutes, offering an in-depth look at the museum’s current shows.

MCA Chicago was originally founded to champion innovative and unexpected contemporary art, shaping the city’s cultural landscape for over five decades.

The museum’s architecture features a modern design that complements its mission, providing open gallery spaces that enhance the presentation of diverse contemporary artworks.

In 2024, the museum received the prestigious D. Daskalopoulos Collection Gift, a transformative donation of over 100 significant works that expanded its collection and visitor appeal.

The museum regularly hosts special features like “Tuesdays on the Terrace,” a summer music series highlighting local Chicago musicians, blending art with live cultural experiences.

A 2017 redesign converted 12,000 square feet of the museum into new public gathering spaces, including the Commons and Marisol restaurant, without changing the building’s footprint.

The museum has featured interactive and immersive exhibitions by internationally acclaimed artists such as Pipilotti Rist and Wafaa Bilal, reflecting its ongoing commitment to boundary-pushing contemporary art.

The MCA Store offers a thoughtfully curated selection of items supporting exhibitions and learning programs, enhancing the visitor experience beyond the galleries.

Practical visitor amenities include accessible entry, a well-positioned location at 220 E Chicago Ave, and detailed resources to assist with planning a visit.

Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago: Highlights in Pictures

FAQs about Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

1. What is the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, and what can I expect to see there?

The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is a leading venue dedicated to showcasing new and unexpected contemporary art and culture. Visitors can experience dynamic exhibitions, engaging performances, and diverse programs featuring cutting-edge works from emerging and established artists, alongside special collections such as the significant D. Daskalopoulos Collection Gift.

2. How do I purchase tickets for the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago?

Tickets for the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago are available for purchase online. To ensure availability for your preferred date and time, it is advisable to book tickets in advance.

3. Are there any discounts or promotions available for Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago tickets?

Discounted ticket options are offered for seniors, students, and local residents, as well as occasional special promotions. Detailed information on available discounts can be found through authorized ticket vendors.

4. Can I book group tickets for the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago?

Yes, group ticket bookings are accepted and may provide discounted rates for larger parties. It is recommended to arrange group tickets ahead of your visit to accommodate your group needs.

5. What are the hours of operation for the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago?

The museum is open Tuesday from 10 am to 9 pm, and Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. The museum remains closed on Mondays and major holidays such as New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

6. Are there any guided tours available at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago?

Guided tours are available and offer visitors an in-depth exploration of exhibitions, including free public tours tied to current shows. These tours provide valuable context and insights into the art on display.

7. Is parking available near the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago?

Parking options include nearby parking garages and street parking in the surrounding area. Public transportation is also a convenient alternative for reaching the museum’s central location.

8. Are there dining options or amenities within the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago?

The museum features dining options such as the on-site Marisol Restaurant, amenities like the MCA Store for unique art-related items, and standard visitor services to enhance your experience.

9. Is this the venue’s official website?

No. This website offers official tickets to the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago but is not the venue’s official website.